NEWSLETTER – Meet Our Architect

Meet Our Architect

The Reno-native who’s putting her stamp on RNO

Amanda Twitchell

Amanda Twitchell is making an impact on the future of RNO. The Reno-native joined the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) in July 2013 and in the last decade her portfolio has inspired passengers by showcasing our beautiful region into the airports design. Twitchell is a Senior Project Manager and Architect for the RTAA and has been the project manager for our recent Ticketing Hall Expansion. She has led the charge to feature more “Modern Mountain” aesthetics into the design incorporating colors and textures of the Reno-Tahoe area.

Twitchell manages the Architecture and Engineering Consultants that designed the ticketing hall, the contractors and construction teams that are making it happen and every coordination effort with the project among our operations teams, airlines, tenants and security. Amanda will also assist in managing the development of the new concourses.

Q: Did you choose your profession, or did it choose you? 

Twitchell: I would say it chose me, on both the aviation and architecture paths. I knew I wanted to be an architect before I even knew what that was. When I was a little girl, I used to build houses out of Legos and draw floor plans. When it comes to aviation, when I worked for an architecture firm, I just happened to be assigned to a project in the Harry Reid International Airport. When it came time to move back to Reno I saw an opening at the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority and thought it would be a great opportunity.

Q: Who inspired your career path the most?

Twitchell: Probably my mom. She has always been my biggest supporter and led by example on how to be determined, strong, and have integrity. Design and construction are male dominated career paths, and the way I was raised help me navigate this environment.

Q: What is your favorite thing about the Reno-Tahoe region? 

Twitchell: I love the community. This place is not a small town, but it has that small town feel where everybody knows each other and supports each other. Also, it’s hard to beat the beauty that surrounds us.

Passengers and airport employees alike can better visualize the expansion with the recent erection of the steel beams that frame the new exterior wall of the ticketing hall. The expansion will meet the needs of future regional growth by adding an additional 10,000sf to the interior of the ticketing hall and increasing airline queuing by 113%. We’re providing for more space for the modern traveler checking bags, more advanced travel technology like self-service kiosks, more amenities like restrooms and accessible wheelchairs, more natural light and beauty that the Reno-Tahoe region is known for. The Ticketing Hall Expansion, scheduled to be completed in Spring 2024, is on budget and on time.

The first image shows the steel beams framing the new exterior wall. You can see the old wall still in place (on the right side of the photo) – which will be torn down after the new exterior wall construction is completed. The second image is a same-angle rendering of the expansion showcasing the new entry ways, more seating, and more natural light. Learn more about MoreRNO.

– Seasonal nonstop service to Minneapolis St. Paul (MSP) is coming back to RNO in June on Delta and Sun Country Airlines. Now booking for summer.

(Pro tip: when using our flight map tool just type in RNO to MSP and select “Weekly Schedule” and “Non-stop” flights to find available dates.)

– TOP GUN: Maverick enthusiasts this event is for you: Meet US Navy pilots and advisors from the movie as they share their experiences with the film. April 20 at 5:00pm, registration closes today, April 13. 

– Mark your calendars: The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority “Community Road Show” is Wednesday, May 3, from 3:30pm-5pm at the Fernley Community/Arts Center. 

– Parking at RNO will be in peak capacity in April and May. Use the real-time parking availability feature before heading to the airport and give yourself extra time to park in overflow lots if necessary.